Thesis Project Form

Engineered modular networks are a very useful and promising experimental system to build brain-on-a-chip models that capture brain-like organization and dynamics. One of the key aspects is to understand whether connectivity is changing along development, and whether connectivity constraints (such as directionality in the coupling among modules) can be reliably introduced. Additionally, data can be recorded using either fluorescence calcium imaging or multielectrode arrays, and it is therefore interesting to understand which of the two technologies is better suited for this kind of designs.

- Analyze experimental data of fluorescence and MEA data and investigate whether introduced directionality dictate connectivity and dynamics.
- Investigate the differences between fluorescence and MEA data and their pros and cons.
- Quantify differences along different days in vitro.

Technical skills:
- Data analysis in the context of effective connectivity and network dynamics.
- Capacity to develop code and software tools for data analysis and visualization.
Experimental skills:
- Preparation of neuronal cultures and understanding of their challenges and data acquisition difficulties.